The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has taken a significant step towards strengthening the country's border management framework. In collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and with support from the European Union, NIS recently concluded a three-day Top Management Workshop. The workshop focused on reviewing the 2019–2023 National Border Management Strategy (NBMS) and its Action Plan. This initiative aims to enhance Nigeria's border management capabilities.
The workshop provided a strategic platform for NIS Top Management and partners to review progress, exchange perspectives, and consider key priorities. According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of NIS, Akinsola Akinlabi, the event enabled participants to assess the current strategy and align it with the priorities of the next policy cycle. This approach will ensure that Nigeria's border management framework remains effective and responsive to emerging challenges.
The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, emphasized the need for a new strategy anchored on credible migration data, effective implementation mechanisms, and sustained inter-agency collaboration. She highlighted that the review must provide a clear and actionable framework capable of responding to emerging border management and security challenges. This framework should also position Nigeria to provide leadership in integrated Border Management across Africa.
The workshop featured strategic discussions, technical sessions, and group presentations. Participants engaged in consolidation of the review outcomes, followed by an NIS Executive Management Endorsement Session. During this session, key recommendations were reviewed and endorsed, interventions prioritized, financing options considered, and the proposed strategic direction for the 2027–2031 policy cycle validated. This comprehensive approach ensures that the new strategy is well-rounded and effective.
The engagement demonstrated the commitment of the Nigeria Immigration Service and its partners to sustained collaboration and continuous improvement in Border Management. By working together, NIS and its partners aim to address the complex challenges associated with border management. This collaborative approach will help to ensure that Nigeria's borders are secure and well-managed.
The review of the National Border Management Strategy is crucial in addressing emerging border management and security challenges. The new strategy will build on the lessons learned from the previous strategy and incorporate new approaches to address contemporary challenges. This will enable Nigeria to maintain effective border management and contribute to regional and global security.
The Nigeria Immigration Service's efforts to strengthen the country's border management framework are ongoing. The outcome of the workshop will inform the development of a new strategy that will guide Nigeria's border management efforts in the coming years. With the support of partners like IOM and the European Union, NIS is well-positioned to implement an effective border management strategy that will enhance national security and contribute to regional stability.
Key points
- Nigeria Immigration Service concludes workshop to review border management strategy
- New strategy to be anchored on credible migration data and effective implementation mechanisms
- NIS commits to sustained collaboration and continuous improvement in Border Management
